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(3) SCHOOL HYGIENE.
Among the new schools recently erected by the Corporation, the hygienic conditions
are a matter for congratulation. In many ways, particularly in lighting and ventilation,
a high ideal has been attained. The lavatories, cloakrooms and sanitary conveniences
in these schools are better designed and easier to maintain in a condition of cleanliness
than in older schools. One regrets that in so comprehensive a school building scheme
baths were not included. If ordinary baths cannot be installed, could some Shower
Baths be put in ? Bathing is highly desirable as an essentia! part of education, but it is
necessary in certain cases, particularly after the children have undertaken heavy exercises
in the summer.
The arrangements for drying wet clothes and boots (details on page 21 of this report)
show room for improvement, and I would like to see a rule enforced for changing wet
foot-gear on arrival at school.
One disadvantage I would like to see remedied in schools of two or more storeys is
the provision of children's lavatories on each floor for the use of delicate children, who,
though not sufficiently debilitated to attend Faircross Special School, require little added
amenities while attending ordinary elementary schools.
(4) MEDICAL INSPECTION.
The year under review has seen changes among the professional staff and I am happy
to be able to say that during the time this report has been in course of preparation the
Corporation have taken steps to increase the permanent medical staff.
The number of children on the school registers on the 31st December, 1933 was
14,773 compared with 13,112 on the 31st December, 1932. The following summary
shows the growth in the school population during the past few years:—
December 1927 7,001 December 1932 13,112
1930 7,906 „ 193 14,773
1931 10,905
The rapid growth in the school population between 1930 and 1931 was due to the
increasing population in the Becontree area consequent on the completion of some
Sections of the new Estate. The population continued to grow throughout 1932 and
1933, although not to the same extent. Stability has not yet been reached, and we may
have to look forward to further growth in the school population.
The following table shows the number of children examined at school at routine and
special inspections during 1933, classified according to the schools attended, the number
of inspections held in each school, and the number of parents or guardians present